Eagle Creek Ranch
Travel Excursion
Don Stonack and Jean Davis
take a sleigh ride
Photo by Patrice Raplee
By Patrice
Raplee
Velvety snow drifts gently to the ground, with whisper soft flakes
dusting the rosy cheeks of tiny children nestled in a horse-drawn sleigh.
Soft misty puffs of breath rise from the muzzles of friendly Percheron
and Belgian horses that patiently await the mountain meadow trek.
Welcome to the enchanting world of Eagle Creek Ranch in Leavenworth,
Wash. Reminiscent of a Currier and Ives print, the ranch is located
about eight miles outside downtown Leavenworth, surrounded by national
forest and alpine meadows. Views of the Cascade Peaks and Chumstick
Mountain set the perfect backdrop for a lovely old-fashioned winter
tradition, horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Michael and Susan Hagan, the proprietors of the rustic ranch, live
as well as work on the property with their two children. The Hagans
managed the horse ranch for years and when it came up for sale three
years ago, they decided to purchase it and continue the business.
In the winter months (Nov. to March), horse-drawn sleigh rides with
warm woolen blankets are available for large or small groups. Couples
often seek the lovely antique cutter that is perfect for a romantic,
private ride. These rides must be of a magical nature due to the half
dozen marriage proposals that occur each year in the antique cutter.
When asked about the success of the proposals, Hagan states, "No
one, has ever said no." If you would like help staging an engagement
or a romantic setting, the ranch can arrange to provide champagne and
flowers.
Families admire the frosty landscape where the sound of the horses'
sleigh bells inspires light-hearted carols and the scenery evokes memories
of a simpler time. Songbooks filled with Christmas carols are available
upon request if your group finds themselves in the midst of a Trapp
family moment.
After the fun and exhilaration of a long sleigh ride, nothing tastes
better than a hot cup of homemade-spiced cider. Pour a cup, then warm
yourself in the ranch's banquet room by the wood stove and enjoy the
rustic atmosphere. Guests can bring their own lunches or snacks and
dine at the checkered cloth picnic tables located in the banquet room.
Groups or company parties of 15 or more can order a catered buffet.
Market Place Catering prepares a delicious menu from hot barbequed chicken
and ribs to apple pie.
In the summer (April to Oct.), the ranch offers trail rides and wagon
trips. From one or two people, to groups of as many as 18, horseback
riding is available for all experience levels. Enjoy the panoramic view
and quiet serenity of alpine meadows and ride through wooded trails
between the beautiful mountains. The catered barbeque buffet is also
available during the summer for groups of 15 or more.
The difference between Eagle Creek Ranch and its counterparts is apparent
the moment you drive through the arched wooden gate. The rambling property
is unparalleled in its unspoiled beauty and scenic views. The Hagans
are friendly and conversant hosts with the imperative that the business
stays consistent and family oriented. "We hire only friendly and
skilled people," says Hagan. "We don't have plans to expand,
because we want to keep the ranch from getting too large. Our goal is
to make the experience real and personal for our guests."
Although Eagle Creek Ranch has no lodging, there are many family accommodations
and B&Bs close by. The Hagans highly recommend the romantic All
Seasons B&B, (509-548-1425) and Run of the River, (509-548-7171)
for couples and the Best Western Inn, in Leavenworth for families. The
Best Western even sports a fun center with miniature golf. If none of
the above accommodations suits your needs, call the ranch and the Hagans
will be happy to suggest alternative lodgings, or preferred restaurants
and cafes.
For more information on Eagle Creek Ranch Sleigh Rides, or Trail Rides,
Wagon Trips and Barbecue dinners call: 1-800-221-RIDE (7433) or 509-548-7798.
Visit their website:
www.eaglecreek.ws
The ranch's sleigh rides are just one of the many popular winter events
and activities that are available in the Leavenworth area. There are
numerous sites for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, including cross-country
skiing on Forest Service property just above the ranch. For the adventurer
who desires a less-traveled cross-country ski route, try Snow Cat Skiing
Day Excursions; their new Snow Cat can carry up to 12 people. For more
information, call 509-548-1514.
During the holiday season, the charming Bavarian town of Leavenworth
is a favorite family destination and has multitudes of little shops
filled with unique trinkets and artwork. The first Saturday in December
is the town's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and every shop and restaurant
sparkles with twinkling colored lights and holiday bacchanalia. Although
Leavenworth has a variety of B&BS, hotels and inns, be sure to call
ahead for reservations during the holidays. For more information on
lodging, contact the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce 509-548-5807.
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